Four people a day caught drink driving in Suffolk during Christmas campaign

FOUR people were caught drink driving by police every day during the festive period.

Police have described the results of the joint Suffolk and Norfolk Constabulary campaign in December as “disappointing” as 7 per cent of tests carried out were positive.

In total, 1980 people were stopped and breath tested of which 138 were found to be over the limit.

Notably 58 of 415 breath tests that were carried out following collisions came back as positive, which equates to nearly 14 per cent, which is from 6.6 per cent in 2012..

Chief Inspector Chris Spinks of the joint Norfolk and Suffolk Roads Policing and Firearms Operations Unit said: “It is disappointing that 7 per cent of the tests carried out were positive.

“Despite the fact that we highlight the drink drive campaign and the obvious dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol, 138 people still risked their lives and the lives of others.

“Those who drink and drive need to realise that their actions can have devastating consequences and while this particular campaign has ended, our commitment to target drivers affected by drink and drugs remains and checks will continue throughout the year.”

More than 20 pubs supported the campaign by offering free or discounted soft drinks to designated drivers.

Tim Passmore, Police and Crime Commissioner for Suffolk, added: “I find it really staggering that despite the obvious dangers and the huge amount of publicity, drivers do not seem to be getting the message.

“Drivers need to understand that drink driving risk their lives and the lives of others.”